Trusts must share efficiency practices to prepare for zero growth in funding, NHS head says

The chief executive of the NHS in England has warned that it is vital to use the next 18 months wisely to prepare for a period of zero growth.

Speaking in London last week at a conference of NHS medical directors, David Nicholson said, “This is a particularly significant time for the future of the NHS. We are at a fork in the road. Since 1948 we have had continuous growth in the NHS, but in two years, or three years at most, we will go to zero growth, and this is unprecedented.”

He said it was vital that the NHS didn’t wait until the money runs out in 18 months and then simply ask for more. He …